Jo Helas Occupational Therapist Sheffield

Jo Helas Occupational Therapist Sheffield: Expert Care and Experience

Jo Helas Occupational Therapist Sheffield brings over 34 years of dedicated professional experience to the community. As a Senior Occupational Therapist, Jo has specialized in sensory integration therapy and learning disabilities. She works from Sheffield, South Yorkshire, providing expert support to children and adults alike. Throughout her career, she has remained passionate about improving quality of life through tailored occupational therapy.

Professional Qualifications and Special Interests of Jo Helas Occupational Therapist Sheffield

Jo earned her Diploma of the College of Occupational Therapists in 1987 at Dorset House School of Occupational Therapy, Oxford. Later, she completed a Post Graduate Certificate in Sensory Integration from the University of Ulster in 2014. These qualifications underpin her deep expertise, especially in sensory integration therapy. She has a strong special interest in supporting individuals with learning disabilities, which shapes her approach to therapy and intervention.

Extensive Experience in Diverse Clinical Settings

From the beginning, Jo Helas Occupational Therapist Sheffield gathered broad clinical experience. She started in 1987, working in various inpatient and community settings, including medical, orthopaedic, mental health, and adult learning disabilities. After gaining this diverse experience, she chose to focus on adult learning disabilities in 1990. Since then, she worked extensively in Sheffield and Rotherham, performing assessments, wheelchair and seating evaluations, and providing equipment to promote independent living. This practical experience helped her build a solid foundation for her current work.

Sensory Integration Therapy Focus in Education Settings

Currently, Jo Helas Occupational Therapist Sheffield specializes in working with children aged 3 to 19 years in education settings. For the past nine years, she has provided sensory integration services at schools for children with severe learning disabilities and autism. She completes sensory profiles and assessments, advises staff on environmental adjustments, and helps establish effective sensory routines. Moreover, she collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams, including CAMHS, speech and language therapists, and educational psychologists, ensuring holistic care for each child.

Commitment to Continuous Professional Development and Collaboration

Jo remains committed to ongoing learning. She participates in courses such as “Making Sense of Play” and “Supporting Individuals with Feeding Difficulties.” Additionally, she engages actively in peer support groups and the Association of Sensory Integration Practice (ASIP). This ongoing professional development helps her stay updated with the latest advances. As a result, Jo Helas Occupational Therapist Sheffield consistently delivers best practice care.